Get USCIS I-134 Form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals seeking to sponsor a non-immigrant visa applicant. Here are some key takeaways about filling out and using this form:

• Purpose: The I-134 form is used to demonstrate that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the visa applicant during their stay in the United States.
• Eligibility: Only U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can act as sponsors. They must be at least 18 years old and reside in the U.S.
• Financial Evidence: Sponsors must provide proof of income, such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements, to show they can support the applicant.
• Completeness: Ensure all sections of the form are filled out accurately. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or denials.
• Signature Requirement: The sponsor must sign the form. A digital signature is acceptable if submitting online, but a handwritten signature is required for paper submissions.
• Submission: The I-134 form is typically submitted to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa application is being processed.
• Validity: The form is valid for the duration of the applicant's visa status, but sponsors should be prepared to provide updated financial information if necessary.
• Legal Obligations: By signing the I-134, the sponsor agrees to support the applicant financially, which may include covering basic needs like food, shelter, and medical care.

• Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This document is similar to the I-134 in that it demonstrates a sponsor's financial ability to support an immigrant. However, the I-864 is legally binding and is often required for family-based immigration, whereas the I-134 is typically used for non-immigrant visa applications.
• Texas Power of Attorney Form: To empower someone to make decisions on your behalf, refer to the comprehensive Power of Attorney resources for guidance on this important legal document.
• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): While the I-130 establishes a relationship between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a foreign relative, it often includes financial information to show that the petitioner can support the relative. The I-134 focuses more on proving financial capability for temporary visits.
• Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application): This form is used for various non-immigrant visas and requires applicants to provide personal and financial information. Like the I-134, it aims to assess the applicant's eligibility for a visa, but the DS-160 is more comprehensive in terms of personal background.
• Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor): This form is for individuals seeking a visa through investment. Similar to the I-134, it requires proof of financial resources. However, the I-526 is specifically for those investing in a U.S. business to create jobs, making it more focused on economic contributions.
• Form I-601 (Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility): This document may require the applicant to provide financial information to support their case. Like the I-134, it can involve demonstrating financial stability, but the I-601 is often used in more complex immigration situations, such as overcoming legal barriers to admission.

The USCIS I-134 form, known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Many individuals have misconceptions about its purpose and requirements. Below is a list of nine common misconceptions regarding this important form, along with clarifications to help demystify it.

• The I-134 is the same as the I-864. While both forms serve as affidavits of support, the I-134 is typically used for non-immigrant visa applicants, while the I-864 is required for immigrants seeking permanent residency.
• Only U.S. citizens can file the I-134. This is not true. Lawful permanent residents can also complete the I-134 form to support a non-immigrant visa applicant.
• Filing the I-134 guarantees a visa approval. Submitting this form does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. It merely shows that the applicant has financial support during their stay in the U.S.
• The I-134 requires a specific income level. While there is no strict income requirement, the sponsor should demonstrate sufficient financial means to support the applicant without public assistance.
• Once filed, the I-134 cannot be revoked. In fact, a sponsor can withdraw their support at any time before the visa is granted, but doing so may have consequences for the applicant.
• All sponsors need to be related to the applicant. This is a misconception. Sponsors do not need to be family members; friends or acquaintances can also serve as sponsors if they can demonstrate adequate financial support.
• The I-134 is only for tourists. This form is often associated with tourist visas, but it can also be used for other non-immigrant visa categories, such as student or work visas.
• Submitting the I-134 is a one-time event. In reality, the sponsor may need to provide updated information or documentation if the application process takes an extended period.
• The I-134 is not legally binding. Although it is not a contract in the traditional sense, the sponsor is expected to provide support as stated in the form, and failure to do so may have legal implications.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the complexities of the immigration process more effectively. It is essential to approach the I-134 form with accurate information and realistic expectations.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other documents that provide additional context and support for the application. Below is a list of common forms and documents that are typically submitted alongside the I-134 form.

• Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the foreign national seeking a visa.
• Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA. This form is required for most family-based and some employment-based immigration cases, ensuring that the sponsor can financially support the immigrant.
• Proof of Income: This can include recent pay stubs, tax returns, and W-2 forms. These documents demonstrate the sponsor's financial ability to support the applicant.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Status: This may include a copy of a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or green card. It verifies the sponsor's eligibility to file the I-134 form.
• Work Confirmation Letter: A crucial document for verifying an individual's employment status, which can be essential for various applications, including loans and housing. For more information, refer to the Work Comfirmation Letter.
• Bank Statements: Recent bank statements can show the sponsor's financial stability. They provide evidence of available funds to support the applicant.

These documents play a crucial role in the immigration process, helping to establish financial support and eligibility. Submitting complete and accurate documentation can enhance the chances of a successful application.